Pressure group OccupyGhana has expressed concerns over the exercise of investigative powers by Ghana's economic-crime investigative agencies. In a statement, the group said recent cases involving account freezes, agency-imposed bail, travel restrictions, reporting requirements, and arrests raise serious concerns about due process. OccupyGhana cited a 2026 High Court ruling that found the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) had frozen the accounts of Sesi-Edem Company Limited over a contractual dispute outside its mandate.
The group referenced the arrest of former NAFCO Chief Executive Hanan Abdul-Wahab Aludiba at the airport days after the High Court had permitted him to travel for medical treatment. This and other cases have led OccupyGhana to call on investigative agencies, including the EOCO and the Bureau of National Intelligence (BNI), to respect due process in their investigations. The group emphasized that due process protects every person under investigation, regardless of party, status, or means.
OccupyGhana also pointed to the PDS Ghana Ltd investigation, where about 66 accounts have reportedly been frozen, while bail for two suspects was increased from GH¢50 million to GH¢100 million within a week. The group argued that due process is not an obstacle to fighting corruption but rather what makes prosecutions sustainable and recoveries lawful. OccupyGhana urged investigative agencies to charge suspects where sufficient evidence exists and to lift freezes, bail conditions, reporting requirements, and travel restrictions where there is insufficient evidence.
The group called on Parliament and the Attorney-General to scrutinize the exercise of investigative powers, arguing that when legal limits are ignored, cases can collapse in court, and the public may lose both the money and the case. OccupyGhana emphasized that investigation must not become punishment and that the fight against corruption must be relentless but lawful.
According to OccupyGhana, the increasing use of investigative powers to impose penalties before trial undermines the justice system. The group stressed that it is essential to differentiate between investigation and punishment, ensuring that individuals are treated fairly and that their rights are protected throughout the process.
The call from OccupyGhana comes amid growing concerns about the use of investigative powers in Ghana. The group argued that while the fight against corruption is crucial, it must be conducted within the bounds of the law. By respecting due process, investigative agencies can ensure that their efforts are effective and sustainable in the long term.
In conclusion, OccupyGhana's statement highlights the need for investigative agencies to balance their efforts to combat corruption with respect for due process. The group's concerns are shared by many who believe that the protection of individual rights is essential to a fair and just society. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how investigative agencies will respond to these calls for reform.
Key points
- OccupyGhana calls on investigative agencies to respect due process in their investigations.
- The group cites several cases where due process was allegedly not followed, including the freezing of accounts and imposition of travel restrictions.
- OccupyGhana urges Parliament and the Attorney-General to scrutinize the exercise of investigative powers to prevent abuses.
